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During the year 2006, My journey took me to Canberra for an interview at a medical college. My plan was to arrange a place to stay upon arrival, but upon reaching the city, a big convention was in town and all the budget hostels and cheap hotels were completely sold out.

As a visitor from Singapore, the idea crossed my mind maybe I could bed down in the terminal – but soon learned Canberra airport, not like the one back home, closes all night. Unsure of quite what to do and feeling increasingly desperate, I caught a city-bound bus and found myself drifting near the casino, thinking I might spend those hours somewhere that stayed open through the night. Admittedly, this plan at my peak to succeed at a crucial interview the next morning, however, being a student on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford.

The world needs more folks like that woman.

I must have looked confused because a woman noticed me loitering in downtown and inquired if I was OK. I shared my predicament and immediately she said I could sleep on the floor of her dormitory at the Australian National University – an ideal turn of events, given that my my interview was scheduled for the next day. She even offered some food: a leftover stuffed baguettes she had from her work shift. I had access to warm shower facilities and a protected spot to rest to spend the night.

In retrospect, I now understand the significant risk she took as a woman inviting a guy she’d just met stay in her room. In those days I was in a bubble of male privilege and not even thinking to such safety concerns. Today, as a parent, I’m amazed she took that chance – yet deeply appreciative.

I never did study at ANU, and I never saw her again, but her act remains etched in my mind her selfless deed of kindness. It is my wish karma has repaid her act of kindness abundantly. Our society requires more people who show such kindness.